After losing a sixth-straight game, the Broncos made the decision Tuesday to bench Brock Osweiler and replace him with Lynch, the team’s first-round pick in the 2016 NFL draft. Players were off Tuesday so Joseph officially announced the team’s decision Wednesday.

Denver traded up to select Lynch (6-7, 244 pounds) 26th overall in last year’s draft. The Memphis product appeared in only three games as a rookie — going 1-1 in two starts — and posted a 79.2 passer rating.

With the playoffs essentially out of reach (the Broncos have a two percent chance to reach the postseason), Denver will use their final six games of the regular season to take a longer look at Lynch. If he shows promise, the Broncos may still consider Lynch their quarterback of the future.

If Lynch struggles, though, Denver will likely look to bring in another quarterback — either through the draft or free agency — in 2018. Their options may include Kirk Cousins and Tyrod Taylor.

Chad Kelly, the team’s seventh-round pick in this year’s draft, may also compete for the starting job next offseason. Kelly will spend his entire rookie season on the Broncos’ reserve/non-football injury list.

Lynch went 296-443 for 3,776 passing yards and 28 touchdown passes and four interceptions during his final season at Memphis. He also rushed 87 times for 239 yards and added two more scores on the ground. Lynch is 23 years old.